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This Day in American History

November 4

1 historic event on this date

Election2008

Barack Obama Elected President

Barack Obama was elected as the 44th President of the United States, becoming the first African American to hold the office. He won with 365 electoral votes and nearly 53 percent of the popular vote.

Why It Matters

Obama's election was a historic milestone in American democracy, demonstrating the nation's capacity for progress on racial equality and expanding the vision of who can lead the country.

Explore the Principles Behind the History

Every event in American history connects to the founding principles. Discover the ideas that shaped these moments.

View the 28 Founding Principles